Readers have expressed their views on what should change in Romford town centre after a consultation on its future was opened.

Last Thursday (March 28), Havering Council announced Romford residents and businesses would be able to have their say from April on what should be done to improve the town centre and surrounding area.

People will be able to formally express their views on the Romford Masterplan from April 8 and May 3 this year.

Since The Recorder published a story announcing the council's move, there has been intense reaction and debate, with over 440 comments on our original piece.

Michael Hodt, a reader on Facebook, said Romford would benefit from looking at Spitalfields Market in east London.

"Look at Spitalfields market and turn it into something similar with better shops [or] market stalls and food options," Michael said.

"This may bring in better clientele and more investment into the area," he added.

RELATED NEWS: Havering Council launches consultation on Romford's future

Timothy Coyle joined Michael in suggesting that incentives could be made for making Romford town centre a place to invest in.

"The council would do well to drop business rates," Timothy suggested. "The more businesses move in, to encourage them to add their mates' businesses, too."

Ray Morgon, council leader, had said that it was the right time to refresh the Romford Masterplan to help protect and strengthen Romford town centre, including the market.

The council leader, on the day the consultation was announced, encouraged people to have their say to help make Romford a place people want to live, visit and trade in.

Romford, which has been home to popular department stores including Debenhams and Woolworths, could benefit from a flagship branch opening, another reader suggested.

"Open John Lewis or Zara on the former Debenhams area," said Chisom Thomas. "That place now looks sad".

Julie Hurrell also picked up on Cllr Morgon's concerns, and said Romford Market could be improved.

"Lower the rent on the market stalls and bring back the market we all knew and loved," Julie suggested.

People in the outer London town will be able to register their views on from April.

If that is you, you can do so online at www.yourromford.co.uk which includes information about in-person pop ups in Romford.